Training on Sustainable Fishing Operation, Fishery Laws, and Marine Resources Management for the Fishery Organization in Lamitan City

Training on Sustainable Fishing Operation, Fishery Laws, and Marine Resources Management for the Fishery Organization in Lamitan City

The Training on Sustainable Fishing Operation, Fishery Laws, and Marine Resources Management for the Fishery Organization in Lamitan City was held on October 8, 2025, at Sitti Auna Riverland Resort, Lamitan City, Basilan, to enhance fisherfolk’s knowledge on responsible fishing practices, strengthen organizational capacity, and promote sustainable marine resource management. Implemented under the WEE-SAFE Project and funded by the European Union through the Bangsamoro Agri-Enterprise Program (EU-BAEP), the activity was conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), and the City Agriculture Office. Sessions covered the state of Philippine fisheries, threats to marine ecosystems, key fishery laws including RA 10654 and MMAA 86, and monitoring efforts against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF), alongside discussions on organizational documentation, registration, and maintenance of fishing equipment. During the open forum, participants raised concerns about transport permits, limited access to boats, and coordination with agencies, with an emphasis on proper registration under RSBSA and MOLE to access government support. EU-funded fishing materials were distributed to participating associations, reinforcing livelihood support and accountability. Overall, the training strengthened knowledge, partnerships, and local capacity toward responsible and sustainable fisheries management in Lamitan City.